W.W. Grainger (GWW) Gets Price Target Increase from JPMorgan Following Earnings Update
JPMorgan analyst Patrick Baumann raised W.W. Grainger's (NYSE: GWW) price target to $1,165 from $1,100, maintaining a Neutral rating, after the company's Q4 2025 earnings. CEO Donald Macpherson highlighted adapting to a difficult macroeconomic environment, exiting the UK market, expanding supply chain capacity, and leveraging AI and machine learning to grow market share, particularly in the High-Touch Solutions segment. Grainger also expanded its product assortment by over 85,000 SKUs in 2025.
W.W. Grainger (GWW) Gets Price Target Increase from JPMorgan Following Earnings Update
JPMorgan raised its price target for W.W. Grainger (GWW) to $1,165 from $1,100, maintaining a Neutral rating, after the company's Q4 2025 earnings update. CEO Donald Macpherson highlighted operating in a difficult macroeconomic environment, exiting the UK market, expanding supply chain capacity, and leveraging AI and machine learning to achieve financial goals and market share gains. Grainger also significantly expanded its product assortment in 2025.
W.W. Grainger (GWW) Gets Price Target Increase from JPMorgan Following Earnings Update
JPMorgan analyst Patrick Baumann raised W.W. Grainger's (GWW) price target to $1,165 from $1,100, maintaining a Neutral rating. This adjustment followed the company's Q4 2025 earnings, where CEO Donald Macpherson discussed navigating a difficult macroeconomic environment by streamlining operations, investing in supply chain, and focusing on AI/machine learning to improve market share. Grainger also expanded its product assortment by over 85,000 SKUs.
Grainger announces slate of 12 directors for shareholder vote
Industrial supply distributor Grainger (NYSE:GWW) announced its board of directors has selected 12 current board members as nominees for the 2026-2027 term, to be voted on at the upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The company, valued at approximately $54 billion, highlighted its 33-year track record of consecutive dividend increases and service to over 4.6 million customers worldwide. This announcement follows recent financial reports where Grainger slightly missed EPS but exceeded revenue expectations, leading to several analysts raising their price targets.
Grainger Nominates Board Members for 2026-2027
Grainger has announced the nomination of 12 current board members for voting at the 2026 Annual Meeting, emphasizing stable leadership and diversity to drive long-term value. The company reported $17.9 billion in revenue for 2025, solidifying its market position in maintenance, repair, and operating products. CEO D.G. Macpherson highlighted the board's mission to ensure commitment to stakeholders and corporate culture.
TWELVE DIRECTORS SLATED FOR GRAINGER'S BOARD TO BE VOTED ON AT THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL MEETING ON APRIL 29, 2026
Grainger (NYSE: GWW) has announced the slate of twelve nominees for its Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term. All current Board members, these candidates will be voted on at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 29, 2026. D.G. Macpherson, Grainger Chairman and CEO, highlighted the Board's diverse perspectives and commitment to creating long-term value for stakeholders.
TWELVE DIRECTORS SLATED FOR GRAINGER'S BOARD TO BE VOTED ON AT THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL MEETING ON APRIL 29, 2026
Grainger (NYSE: GWW) announced that its Board of Directors has selected a slate of 12 current Board members to be nominated for re-election at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 29, 2026. The nominees bring diverse perspectives and a unified commitment to creating long-term value for stakeholders, as stated by Grainger's Chairman and CEO, D.G. Macpherson. Grainger, a leading broad line distributor, reported $17.9 billion in revenue in 2025.
A Look At W.W. Grainger (GWW) Valuation After Q4 Beat And 2026 Sales Guidance
W.W. Grainger (GWW) recently reported Q4 revenue above expectations and provided 2026 sales guidance of US$18.7b to US$19.1b, which was well-received by the market. Despite a recent share price pullback, its long-term shareholder returns are strong, prompting investors to consider if this presents an entry point. The company's valuation is considered "about right" at $1,131 based on fair value estimates, but its current P/E of 31.1x is higher than the US Trade Distributors average of 24x, suggesting it may be expensive.
Will Rapid EPS And Revenue Compounding Change DXP Enterprises' (DXPE) Investment Narrative?
DXP Enterprises has shown strong financial performance with 13% annualized revenue growth and 50.1% EPS compounding over the past five years, setting it apart from peers. While this earnings momentum is a key short-term catalyst, high debt levels remain a central risk despite a recent refinancing aimed at acquisition flexibility. Investors are encouraged to consider multiple perspectives on the company's fair value and future cash flow potential.
Coca-Cola Consolidated (NASDAQ:COKE) Faces Tactical Pressure In Nasdaq Composite
Coca-Cola Consolidated (NASDAQ:COKE) is experiencing increased short interest despite stable institutional ownership, a situation influenced by the current volatility in the Nasdaq Composite. The article highlights that COKE is the largest independent Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., operating under exclusive agreements, and focuses on the manufacturing and distribution of Coca-Cola beverages across the country. To access the full article, readers are prompted to log in or register.
A Look At DXP Enterprises (DXPE) Valuation After Strong Recent Share Price Momentum
DXP Enterprises (DXPE) has seen strong recent share price momentum, with significant gains over the past month and year, reflecting building momentum. Despite this, the company's valuation suggests it is approximately 9% overvalued based on a detailed cash flow analysis, anchoring its fair value at US$136.50 compared to its current US$148.55. While its P/E ratio is slightly below its estimated fair ratio, it sits above industry peers, prompting questions about whether the premium is justified or presents an additional valuation risk.
How Investors Are Reacting To Fastenal (FAST) Richer Valuation And Optimistic Profit Outlook
Fastenal (FAST) is experiencing a richer valuation and optimistic profit outlook, with analysts expecting profits to increase by about 30% in the coming years. Despite strong full-year 2025 results, the article highlights concerns about potential risks such as elevated inventory and whether the current pricing leaves sufficient room for error given possible cost pressures, tariffs, or weaker demand. Investors are encouraged to consider a variety of analyst perspectives and the company's underlying narrative, which projects significant revenue and earnings growth by 2028.
ABN Amro Investment Solutions Purchases 50,030 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
ABN Amro Investment Solutions significantly increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 974.3% in the third quarter, acquiring an additional 50,030 shares to own a total of 55,165 shares valued at $52.57 million. W.W. Grainger constitutes 1.1% of ABN Amro's investment portfolio. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and recent analyst reports show a mixed outlook with an average "Hold" rating and a consensus price target of $1,060.13.
Why W.W. Grainger (GWW) Is Down 5.5% After Mixed 2025 Results, 2026 Guidance And New Lawsuit
W.W. Grainger (GWW) shares dropped 5.5% following mixed Q4 2025 results, lower net income despite higher sales, and the announcement of 2026 sales guidance of US$18.70 billion to US$19.10 billion. The company is facing margin pressure from investments in technology and expansion, as well as a new California labor class action lawsuit alleging wage and hour violations. These factors create uncertainty around profitability and introduce legal and cost risks for investors.
Why W.W. Grainger (GWW) Is Down 5.5% After Mixed 2025 Results, 2026 Guidance And New Lawsuit
W.W. Grainger (GWW) saw its stock drop by 5.5% following mixed 2025 financial results, 2026 sales guidance, and news of a new California labor class action lawsuit. While the company reported increased sales in 2025, net income and EPS declined, indicating pressure on profitability due to investments. The 2026 sales guidance of US$18.70 billion to US$19.10 billion provides a revenue growth expectation, but concerns linger over margin pressure and the potential costs associated with the new legal challenge.
Wedbush Securities Inc. Purchases 1,075 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Wedbush Securities Inc. increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 168.2% in the third quarter, acquiring an additional 1,075 shares, bringing their total holdings to 1,714 shares valued at $1.63 million. This transaction occurred amidst notable insider selling, with CEO Donald G. Macpherson selling shares worth over $14 million and other insiders selling off a total of $26.16 million worth of shares in the last 90 days. The company also announced a quarterly dividend of $2.26 per share, payable on March 1st.
Rhumbline Advisers Purchases 2,596 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 2.8% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 2,596 shares to own a total of 96,382 shares valued at $91.85 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and 80.70% of the company's stock is held by institutional investors. W.W. Grainger's stock has been trading down, with recent insider selling and mixed analyst ratings.
Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund Sells 6,027 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
The Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund reduced its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 31.1% in the third quarter, selling 6,027 shares and retaining 13,343 shares valued at approximately $12.715 million. The industrial products company recently reported Q3 earnings per share of $9.44, missing estimates slightly, and revenue of $4.43 billion, while setting an FY2026 EPS guidance above analyst expectations. Several analysts have updated their price targets and ratings for GWW, with the stock currently having a "Hold" consensus rating and an average price target of $1,060.13.
W.W. Grainger Inc (GWW) Shares Down 3.73% on Feb 12
W.W. Grainger Inc (GWW) shares fell 3.73% on February 12, reaching an intraday low of $1,152.23 before closing at $1,157.68. This places the stock 5% below its 52-week high and 29.50% above its 52-week low. Analyst forecasts suggest an average target price of $1,112.37, implying a potential downside, and the stock currently has a "Hold" recommendation from brokerage firms.
ING Groep NV Raises Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
ING Groep NV significantly increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 103.2% in the third quarter, now owning 11,689 shares valued at $11.139 million. Other institutional investors like Vanguard Group Inc., State Street Corp, and Geode Capital Management LLC have also adjusted their holdings. The article also details recent insider transactions, financial performance, dividend announcements, and varying analyst ratings for W.W. Grainger.
Caprock Group LLC Makes New $4.21 Million Investment in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Caprock Group LLC has made a new $4.21 million investment in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW), purchasing 4,139 shares during the 3rd quarter. Other institutional investors have also adjusted their stakes in the company. W.W. Grainger recently reported its earnings, missing analyst estimates slightly, but announced a quarterly dividend of $2.26 per share.
AlphaQuest LLC Has $160,000 Stock Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
AlphaQuest LLC significantly reduced its holdings in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 92.2% in the third quarter, reporting a remaining stock position valued at $160,000. Despite this, other institutional investors have recently shown increased interest in GWW. The article also details insider stock sales, recent financial performance, dividend announcements, and analyst ratings for W.W. Grainger.
AMETEK Stock in 2026: Analysts’ Guide After Rallying 25% Last Year
AMETEK (AME) has provided 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of $8 to $8, below the consensus midpoint due to tariff uncertainty, despite adding LKC Technologies to expand its ophthalmic diagnostics portfolio. Analysts project AMETEK stock could reach $259 by 2028, implying an 11% upside or a 4% annualized return over three years, which is below typical equity hurdle rates. The valuation model suggests a "Sell" rating, noting that the 3.7% annualized return does not sufficiently compensate for industrial cyclicality and current valuation risks at 25.7x forward P/E.
Is Grainger Stock Overvalued in 2026 After a 15% Rally Last Year?
W.W. Grainger (GWW) guided 2026 sales to $19 billion with a 15-16% operating margin. Despite a 15% rally in 2025 and J.P.Morgan raising its price target, TIKR's valuation model suggests GWW stock is overvalued with an annualized return of 7.5% over 2.9 years, falling short of a typical 10% equity hurdle rate, prompting a "Sell" signal. Key assumptions for the model include 6.4% revenue growth, 15.8% operating margins, and a 25.3x exit P/E multiple.
Impax Asset Management Group plc Boosts Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Impax Asset Management Group plc significantly increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 197.6% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 23,182 shares valued at $22.09 million. Other institutional investors like Quaker Wealth Management LLC and Asset Dedication LLC also boosted their positions. Despite these increases, W.W. Grainger's stock saw a slight dip, and the company reported mixed financial results, with EPS missing estimates but revenue exceeding expectations.
Candriam S.C.A. Sells 4,471 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Candriam S.C.A. reduced its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 25.1% in the third quarter, selling 4,471 shares and leaving it with 13,315 shares valued at $12.69 million. Meanwhile, company insiders, including CEO Donald G. Macpherson, have also been net sellers, divesting 26,881 shares for roughly $26.16 million in the last three months. Despite missing EPS estimates slightly for the last quarter, Grainger's revenue was up 4.5% year-over-year, and analysts currently have a "Hold" consensus rating with a target price of $1,060.13.
W.W. Grainger's Q4 Earnings Call: Our Top 5 Analyst Questions
W.W. Grainger's Q4 2025 performance exceeded revenue expectations due to strong execution in its High Touch Solutions and Endless Assortment segments, driven by strategic investments, expanded product offerings, and AI integration. Despite robust sales, GAAP EPS and Adjusted EBITDA slightly missed analyst estimates. This article highlights key questions posed by analysts, focusing on management's cautious outlook, customer sentiment, gross margin trends, digital investment metrics, and tariff pass-through.
Applied Industrial Technologies: Availability as a Business Model
Applied Industrial Technologies thrives by being an essential distributor and service provider in industrial supply chains, focusing on keeping equipment operational. The company's business model, which centers on product availability, technical support, and building deep customer relationships through services, ensures predictability and steady cash generation. Despite being valued like a cyclical distributor, its reliance on maintenance-driven demand and a strategic approach to inventory suggest greater resilience than its market classification often implies.
Azzad Asset Management Inc. ADV Grows Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Azzad Asset Management Inc. ADV increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 20.4% in the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 5,947 shares valued at $5.667 million. Other institutional investors like Vanguard Group and State Street Corp also adjusted their positions. Despite missing EPS estimates by $0.02, Grainger reported revenue that beat expectations and provided FY2026 EPS guidance above current analyst forecasts.
Envestnet Asset Management Inc. Has $104.56 Million Stock Holdings in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 2.4%, now holding 109,723 shares valued at approximately $104.56 million. Other institutions like Parnassus Investments LLC and Norges Bank also acquired significant new positions, leading to institutional ownership of 80.7% of the company's stock. W.W. Grainger recently reported slightly missed EPS of $9.44 but revenue growth of 4.5%, declared a $2.26 quarterly dividend, and holds an average analyst rating of "Hold" with a price target of $1,060.13.
Is It Too Late To Consider Fastenal (FAST) After Its Strong Multi‑Year Share Price Run?
This article analyzes Fastenal's (FAST) stock performance and valuation after a significant share price increase. Using Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) and Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio analyses, Simply Wall St suggests that Fastenal may be overvalued relative to its intrinsic value and industry peers. The article also introduces the "Narratives" feature for investors to form their own valuation models.
Aurdan Capital Management LLC Sells 866 Shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Aurdan Capital Management LLC reduced its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) by 9.7% in the third quarter, selling 866 shares. The firm now owns 8,069 shares valued at $7,689,000, making W.W. Grainger its 10th largest holding. Other institutional investors like Mirae Asset Global Investments and Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp increased their positions in the company.
BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S Has $14.21 Million Stock Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A/S significantly reduced its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) during Q3, decreasing its holdings by 37% and ending the quarter with a position valued at $14.21 million. This comes as insiders were net sellers of the stock, while analyst consensus remains a "Hold" with a target price of $1,052. W.W Grainger recently reported Q4 EPS that slightly missed estimates but exceeded revenue expectations and provided FY2026 EPS guidance.
A Look At W.W. Grainger (GWW) Valuation After Q4 2025 Beat And Upbeat 2026 Outlook
W.W. Grainger (GWW) reported strong Q4 2025 sales and provided an optimistic 2026 outlook, leading to recent stock price gains. Despite positive momentum and a dividend affirmation, an analysis by Simply Wall St suggests the stock is currently 12.3% overvalued, with a fair value pegged at $1,053.47 against its latest close of $1,183.15. The valuation narrative assumes steady revenue growth and margin expansion driven by digital transformation, but investors are cautioned to consider potential impacts from lingering inflation or a muted MRO market.
Ex-Dividend Reminder: W.W. Grainger, Hexcel and Global Partners
W.W. Grainger, Hexcel Corp., and Global Partners LP are set to trade ex-dividend on February 9, 2026. W.W. Grainger will pay a quarterly dividend of $2.26, Hexcel Corp. $0.18, and Global Partners LP $0.76. Investors should expect their stock prices to open slightly lower on the ex-dividend date to reflect these payouts.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: United Airlines Holdings (UAL), WW Grainger (GWW) and Transdigm Group (TDG)
This article provides analyst ratings and price targets for three industrial goods companies: United Airlines Holdings (UAL), WW Grainger (GWW), and Transdigm Group (TDG). Bernstein maintained a Buy rating on UAL with a $136 price target, RBC Capital maintained a Hold rating on GWW with a $1207 target, and Truist Financial maintained a Buy rating on TDG with a $1697 target. The report also includes analyst consensus ratings and recent upgrades for these stocks.
Principal Financial Group Inc. Lowers Position in W.W. Grainger, Inc. $GWW
Principal Financial Group Inc. has decreased its holdings in W.W. Grainger, Inc. by 5.0% in the third quarter, reducing its stake to 52,121 shares valued at $49.67 million. Other institutional investors have also modified their positions in the company, which saw its stock open at $1,195.29 and has a market capitalization of $56.84 billion. Despite a slight earnings per share miss for the latest quarter, W.W. Grainger announced a quarterly dividend and received various analyst ratings, with an average "Hold" rating.
Fastenal (FAST) Valuation Check After Q4 Revenue Miss And Higher 2026 Capital Spending Plan
Fastenal (FAST) saw its shares rebound into focus after reporting Q4 revenue below Wall Street expectations, attributing it to softer demand and higher tariffs, alongside an increased 2026 capital spending plan. Despite recent strong share price momentum, the company's stock currently trades above its narrative fair value of $43.46 and the analyst consensus price target of $44.35, suggesting it may be overvalued. Weaker sales trends and pressure on gross margins could further impact its valuation if cost controls and digital growth do not meet expectations.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON)
Two analysts have issued bullish sentiments on industrial goods companies WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON). Ryan Merkel from William Blair maintained a Buy rating on WW Grainger, while Jonathan Ho, also from William Blair, maintained a Buy rating on Axon Enterprise. WW Grainger has a consensus Hold rating with a slight downside from current levels, while Axon Enterprise has a Strong Buy consensus with significant upside potential.
Is It Time To Reassess Distribution Solutions Group (DSGR) After Mixed Share Price Performance?
Distribution Solutions Group (DSGR) has shown mixed share price performance, with a 5.8% year-to-date return but a 6.3% decline over the last year. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis suggests the stock is fairly valued at around $29.92 per share, slightly above its current price of $29.67. However, using a Price to Sales (P/S) ratio, DSGR appears undervalued, trading at 0.69x compared to an industry average of 1.34x and a calculated fair ratio of 1.20x.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON)
Two analysts have issued bullish sentiments on industrial goods companies WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON). Ryan Merkel from William Blair maintained a Buy rating on WW Grainger, while Jonathan Ho, also from William Blair, maintained a Buy rating on Axon Enterprise. WW Grainger has a consensus Hold rating from analysts, while Axon Enterprise has a Strong Buy consensus.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: WW Grainger (GWW) and Amprius Technologies Inc (AMPX)
Two industrial goods companies, WW Grainger (GWW) and Amprius Technologies Inc (AMPX), recently received bullish sentiments from analysts. William Blair analyst Ryan Merkel maintained a Buy rating on WW Grainger, while Jed Dorsheimer reiterated a Buy rating on Amprius Technologies Inc. The consensus for GWW is a Hold with a slight downside, while AMPX holds a Strong Buy consensus with significant upside potential.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON)
Two analysts have issued bullish sentiments on Industrial Goods companies WW Grainger (GWW) and Axon Enterprise (AXON). Ryan Merkel from William Blair maintained a Buy rating on WW Grainger, while Jonathan Ho, also from William Blair, maintained a Buy rating on Axon Enterprise. WW Grainger has an analyst consensus of Hold, with a price target representing a slight downside, whereas Axon Enterprise has a Strong Buy consensus with a significant upside potential.
Why Global Industrial Company (NYSE:GIC) Could Be Worth Watching
Global Industrial Company (NYSE:GIC) saw a double-digit share price rise recently and is trading below its intrinsic value of $50.11, currently at US$31.84. With forecasted profit growth of 25% over the next couple of years, the company presents a potential buying opportunity for investors looking for growth at a cheap price. The article suggests that its strong future outlook is not yet fully reflected in its current share price.
Baird Adjusts W.W. Grainger Price Target to $1,245 From $1,170, Maintains Outperform Rating
Baird has raised its price target for W.W. Grainger to $1,245 from $1,170, while reiterating an Outperform rating on the stock. This adjustment reflects a positive outlook on the industrial supplies and equipment distributor. The report indicates continued analyst interest in W.W. Grainger following its recent Q4 2025 earnings release and guidance for 2026.
Bernstein Adjusts W.W. Grainger PT to $1,052 From $975, Maintains Market Perform Rating
Bernstein has increased its price target for W.W. Grainger (GWW) to $1,052 from $975, while maintaining a Market Perform rating on the stock. This adjustment comes amidst a series of other analyst price target updates for W.W. Grainger, reflecting various outlooks on the company's performance. The article also provides recent news on Grainger's Q4 2025 earnings and 2026 guidance, as well as an overview of the company's business.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW) announced its Q4 and Full Year 2025 earnings, missing EPS expectations by $0.02 with a reported EPS of $9.44. The company discussed its strategic progress, including leveraging technology and MRO know-how, streamlining its portfolio, and investing in supply chain capacity. Despite macroeconomic challenges, Grainger delivered 4.5% total company sales growth and provided a positive outlook for 2026, expecting revenue between $18.7 billion and $19.1 billion, and diluted EPS between $42.25 and $44.75.
WW Grainger stock price target raised to $1,300 by Oppenheimer
Oppenheimer has raised its price target for WW Grainger (NYSE:GWW) to $1,300 from $1,250, maintaining an Outperform rating despite the stock trading above its fair value. The increase follows a positive reaction to the company's recent earnings report, which showed in-line sales and a slight earnings beat. Although gross margin improvements were noted, higher SG&A expenses tempered overall results.
Dividend Aristocrats In Focus: W.W. Grainger
W.W. Grainger (GWW) is a Dividend Aristocrat that has increased its dividend for 53 consecutive years, now qualifying as a Dividend King. The company, a large supplier of maintenance, operating, and repair products, reported its full-year 2025 results with revenue up 4.5% and adjusted EPS down 8.6%, but projects strong growth for 2026. While its competitive advantages, like a vast distribution network and resilience during recessions, are strong, the current valuation makes it a "hold" despite impressive long-term dividend growth.
Applied Industrial Ties Dividend Growth To Expansion In Automation And M&A
Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE:AIT) has announced an 11% dividend increase, its 17th consecutive annual raise, alongside plans for an accelerated pace of acquisitions, particularly in technical engineered solutions, automation, and flow control. This move is seen as a way to combine income and growth for investors, reinforcing the company's shift towards higher-margin services and technical solutions. The dividend hike comes after strong financial results for fiscal 2026, but also introduces integration and execution risks associated with increased M&A activity.
